Wednesday 16th October
Philippians 2: 14 – 18
Do all things without murmuring and arguing, so that you may be blameless and innocent, children of God without blemish in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, in which you shine like stars in the world. It is by your holding fast to the word of life that I can boast on the day of Christ that I did not run in vain or labour in vain. But even if I am being poured out as a libation over the sacrifice and the offering of your faith, I am glad and rejoice with all of you — and in the same way you also must be glad and rejoice with me.
Reflection
What does anger feel like?
Descriptions differ from internal chaos to frustration, and a feeling as though we have an internal volcano waiting to erupt. Sometimes we may feel we just ‘have to have our say’, regardless of taking anybody else’s feelings into account. ‘Getting things off our chest’, we say to ourselves, is a healthy position to be in and, somehow, we can feel better and lighter. We even justify to ourselves that Jesus got angry, (with the money changers), so if Jesus got angry, it’s ok for me to get angry.
There is a difference though; Jesus’ anger was fuelled for passion for God’s people, the injustice, suffering, and oppression; even Jesus presence caused a stir in all the circles of society.
2,000 years later, Jesus still gently persuades, cares for, and compassionately guides people into action. In turn they shine like stars within their community and culture as they acquire a ‘righteous anger’, and seek change for the good.
When we are serving, being an advocate for God’s people, we do shine like stars, internally and externally. We may not be noticed, or even feel it within ourselves, but we are pouring out our faith for others, by our encouragement and supportive action to projects close to our hearts; we participate with God to enable the flourishing and growth of God’s people.
Is your light shining brightly or is it clouded by complaints and arguing?
Be a clear and radiant light shining out for God, lets us turn or frustrated anger to righteous anger.
Prayer
For the times, we speak in haste and anger, forgive us.
For the times we use our power to control others, forgive us.
For the times we encourage individuals on their journey, bless us.
For the times we stand up for what is right and just, bless us.
For the times we shine like stars within your radiant light,
Lord make us your holy disciples,
that overflow with the gifts of your ever-dancing Spirit.
Shalom.